Some say she doesn't represent Japan's demographic, while others champion the model, proud that she is overcoming racial hurdles and helping to expand the definition of what it means to be Japanese.

But changing perceptions here can be an uphill struggle. In a culture that typically prefers pale -- where "pure Japanese" white skin is considered a symbol of beauty -- the darker skinned Miyamoto's crowning last week was a revolution on the runway.

On a walk through Tokyo's Harajuku fashion district on Tuesday -- the statuesque 20-year-old attracted stares, photo takers, and curious crowds.

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With a Japanese mother and African-American father from Arkansas, Miyamoto is "haafu" -- meaning half-Japanese.

Bullied for being different

In a country where around 98% of the population is considered to be the same race, this beauty queen says she was bullied for being different.

"In school, people used to throw garbage at me," Miyamoto says -- adding they also used racial slurs.